The benefits of living in a care home significantly outweigh the challenges for older people, according to research from My Home Life England.

My Home Life England, part of City St George’s, University of London, identifies six key ways in which older people can thrive in a care home: building meaningful relationships; staying active; fostering inclusivity; ensuring safety; maintaining dignity; and accessing quality healthcare.

The report, commissioned by the Hallmark Foundation,  is one of the largest ever qualitative research studies on older people’s experiences of living in residential care.

“These themes emphasise the importance of social interaction, active participation, a welcoming environment, and proper support structures in care homes,” said Avnish Goyal, chairman of Hallmark Luxury Care Homes.

“This report will be a vital tool for reflection among practitioners in supporting their work, and for commissioners ensuring that the care market is fit for purpose,” added Vic Rayner, chief executive of the National Care Forum and Honorary Professor at City St George’s, University of London.

“Indeed, My Home Life England has already started working with some care providers to help them engage with the research as a tool for quality improvement.”

Researchers spoke to 125 participants, including 44 older people, 27 family members, 36 care team members, and 18 care home managers from 16 residential care homes across England, Scotland, and Wales.

The older people who took part in this study had an average age of 85 and had spent an average of two years living in a care home

The researchers identified challenges around the transition into a care home including the adjustment to communal living, the loss of home and possessions, and adapting to a new social environment, Challenges of living in a care home included navigating relationships with others, the perceived loss of independence, and having to conform to the expectations and routines of the home.

My Home Life England has designed an online, one day workshop to help care teams reflect upon the six themes and develop ideas and practical tips for improving practice.

This aligns with CQC’s single assessment framework and will support care homes to demonstrate that they are using the most up-to-date evidence to support their practice.